Direct Line #3: Local candidates speak

Again this year, the Daily News has offered local candidates for state office the opportunity to communicate directly with voters. All candidates in contested, local races for the Massachusetts Legislature have been invited to submit 150-word essays, which will appear each Sunday in the Opinion section up to the Nov....

MetroWest Daily News, Framingham, MA

Writer

Posted Sep. 14, 2008 at 12:01 AM
Updated Sep 14, 2008 at 2:04 PM

Posted Sep. 14, 2008 at 12:01 AM
Updated Sep 14, 2008 at 2:04 PM

» Social News

Again this year, the Daily News has offered local candidates for state office the opportunity to communicate directly with voters. All candidates in contested, local races for the Massachusetts Legislature have been invited to submit 150-word essays, which will appear each Sunday in the Opinion section up to the Nov. 4 election. Candidates in uncontested races may also submit statements, which will appear as space allows.

Making sure our economy grows is a top priority of mine. Our small businesses must have the opportunity to flourish, and our citizens must have access to workforce education and skill training that will help them get good-paying jobs.

We must also invest in our communities and our workforce to draw new companies to the region. I am proud of my role in bringing companies like Bristol-Myers Squibb and Evergreen Solar to my district, creating hundreds of new jobs.

What attracted these companies were a well-trained, well-educated workforce, excellent public schools, and investments in our infrastructure, like the $75 million I secured to improve commuter rail service as well as significant investment in sewer and electricity expansion.

I'm also proud to have fought for the Green Jobs bill, which promises to create hundreds of new jobs in the alternative energy field. These initiatives and investments are what spur job creation in our region.

As your next state senator, I will continue to promote investments in our communities and our workforce that will further create jobs.

Steven Levy, Republican

This week the town of Shirley faced a Proposition 2-1/2 override vote. The people of Shirley were forced to choose between raising their own property taxes or laying off teachers and police officers.

This vote should never have been needed. Beacon Hill lawmakers like my opponent claim to fight for their represented communities. But state revenues have grown $9 billion (40 percent) since 2002 while local aid has increased by just $100 million (2.7 percent). Clearly, his priority has been growing state spending, not helping our cities and towns.

We need leaders with an honest commitment to increasing local aid by creating a more efficient government and eliminating wasteful state spending. As a local elected official I've watched our state government pass the buck to local communities when it comes to paying for public services.

When elected I will fight for our municipalities and take on the Beacon Hill status quo.

State Senate, Norfolk, Bristol & Middlesex

Includes Natick, Wayland, Sherborn, Wellesley, Millis and Franklin

Sara Orozco, Democrat

Years ago, while visiting California, I was captivated by the wind farms that dotted the landscape. Today I am a supporter of Cape Wind as we transition to cleaner energy sources.

Page 2 of 7 - According to the Minerals Management Service review, Cape Wind's projected output would be enough to meet the yearly demand from about 223,776 households, roughly 75 percent of the average electricity demand on the Cape and Islands, thereby reducing the flow of electricity from other sources into the Cape and Islands grid.

Investing in renewable, clean energy is not just an environmental imperative, it's an economic opportunity.

Massachusetts has proudly served as innovator and incubator for high tech, biotech, academia, and health care - industries that have improved our quality of life and enriched our economy.

The Sierra Club has endorsed my candidacy and as your state senator, I plan to make Green-Tech research, jobs and marketing our next "industrial revolution".

House of Representatives, 3rd Middlesex

Includes Hudson, Stow, Maynard and Bolton

Leonard Golder, Democrat

As a homeowner, parent and child of a 102 year-old mother, I understand the problems facing working and retired people.

I have 17 years of experience in local government and I'm the only candidate in my race for state representative with experience in drafting, advocating and testifying on state legislation.

If elected, I will work to make government solve problems that matter to people without getting caught up in the petty, political squabbles of Beacon Hill, including:

-- Increase jobs, provide tax relief for property owners and revitalize the small business areas in the district that have vacant stores.

-- A comprehensive education policy for good local schools and a top- rated, inclusive system of higher education.

-- Protect our environment and clean the Assabet River and Lake Boone.

-- More community services, housing options, and better prescription coverage for senior citizens.

If I'm elected, I will be the people's advocate on Beacon Hill.

www.lennygolder.com

Kate Hogan, Democrat

I want to thank you for your support and encouragement in this primary race.

As I've become more involved in community and public affairs over the past two decades; as I've met and worked with so many of you, I have found myself increasingly drawn to public service. Pat Walrath has been kind enough to encourage me in this and has endorsed my candidacy for her seat in the legislature.

Pat suggested that I walk the district and so, to date, I've knocked on almost 5,000 doors in Stow, Maynard, Bolton, and Hudson. I have been overwhelmed by your support and touched by our conversations.

I want you to know I'm ready to roll up my sleeves and work to represent your hopes, concerns and ideas in Boston.

As a Stow selectman, former Nashoba School Committee member, and 18 year resident of this district, I have direct experience and demonstrated results from working on the issues most important to our residents. We need to work together to find the most effective solutions to managing the challenges each of our towns face, whether it be local revenues, education or the environment.

Through this campaign for the Democratic nomination, I have voiced specific concerns I want to address on Beacon Hill as your state representative.

In addition to the debate currently being rebroadcast on local cable, you can see my thoughts on various key issues at www.smartvoter.org and www.thevoterguide.org as well as my website www.ellensturgis.com.

Voters have the opportunity, through websites and publications, to read about what the candidates for this district consider critical issues and possible solutions. Please review these sites before Tuesday's primary.

Call me at 978-460-0883 if you have any questions.

House of Representatives, 4th Middlesex

Includes Marlborough, Southborough and Berlin

Danielle Gregoire, Democrat

With primary day rapidly approaching, I would like to take this opportunity to highlight my qualifications.

Working for the past five years as the legislative aide for Berlin, Marlborough, and precinct one of Southborough has given me the opportunity to work on areas that have continuous impact on the district, including our commuter rail, toll equity, school funding, and economic development.

I am a proud product of the Marlborough Public Schools, St. Anselm College and Suffolk University Law School. I have been active in the community as a member of several organizations and committees and I am dedicated to making Massachusetts a better place to live.

As a lifelong resident of Marlborough, an attorney and a public servant, I have a passion for these communities and it is my goal to be an outspoken advocate for all of our residents.

I respectfully ask for your vote on Tuesday, September 16th.

Matt Giancola, Democrat

During this campaign, people have asked me why I am running for state representative. I tell them it is because I'm tired of the corruption and deadlock I see on Beacon Hill. I'm tired of the notion that government can't do anything right or meaningful anymore.

If anything, now more than ever is the time where we need creative, visionary leadership on Beacon Hill. Hundreds of thousands live without health care, our roads and bridges are in disrepair, and we have fallen to 47th in the nation in funding our public colleges and universities. We must do better.

I pledge to hold a town meeting forum once a month in the district on the important issues of our day. Our democracy is at its best when we are all engaged, when we all have a stake in the outcome. If you elect me, I will work to bring a new generation of leadership to our Commonwealth.

Page 4 of 7 - Arthur Vigeant, Republican

As your state representative, I will always be an independent voice for you. I will:

-- Fight for reform and will never be afraid to ask tough questions or make tough decisions.

-- Senior citizens will always be a top priority. I led the effort working with several mayors and many councilors for eight years on rehabilitation of the former Frye Shoe lot. The Christopher House, a former brownsfield site, is Marlborough's first affordable assisted living community.

-- The education of our youth is important in our global economy. It is incumbent upon state government to pay for educational mandates and provide tools to help our students succeed.

-- Transportation brought Southborough and Marlborough together this year to become members of the MWRTA. I will continue to fight to bring transportation dollars to the district to expand public transportation, needed more than ever with fuel costs at an all time high.

www.ArthurVigeant.com

House of Representatives, 6th Middlesex

Includes Framingham precincts 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 9, 13, 14 and 17

Pam Richardson, Democrat

I am the only candidate with a record of results for Framingham in education, local aid, economic development and public safety. One of my opponents has staked out a radical agenda that we cannot afford. My other opponent, Mr. Walsh, offers false promises but has little in his background to show he can deliver on those promises.

Unlike my opponents I don't need on the job training. I understand the legislative process, know the players, and how to get things done for Framingham.

From a 94 percent voting record, to handling hundreds of constituent service requests each month, to convening interested parties to find solutions to local concerns, no one does or will work harder for you.

I am proud to be supported by the Mass. AFL-CIO, teachers, nurses, fire fighters and construction workers. It has been an honor to represent you.

I ask for your vote on Tuesday, September 16th.

Dawn Harkness, Democrat

Framingham needs a strong voice at the State House. My passion, experience, and accessibility make me the most qualified candidate for this position.

Former Representative Debby Blumer's family, former Representative Barbara Gray, The MetroWest Daily News and The Boston Globe all agree, and each has endorsed me. I'm deeply honored to have the support of so many who have shared your stories with me during this campaign.

When elected, I will fight for:

-- Framingham's fair share of state aid;

-- Environmentally friendly economic development;

-- Legislation which increases state revenues AND provides property tax relief for folks at risk of being taxed out of their homes.

Page 5 of 7 - No one knows all the issues that will confront us, but I promise that no one will work harder and no one will listen more.

For more info check out www. DawnHarkness.com.

I respectfully ask for your vote Tuesday, September 16th.

Chris Walsh, Democrat

Framingham deserves a state representative who will stand up and fight for lasting improvements in the quality of life of our residents.

I will fight to:

-- Energize our economy by creating and preserving high quality jobs through growth of large and small business, and nonprofits;

-- Build a tourism, creative enterprises and arts economy;

-- Correct inequities faced by Metrowest taxpayers and commuters,

-- Educate our children with fair funding for our schools;

-- Preserve our heritage, open space and fix the Dover Amendment;

-- Work with local and regional leaders to improve transportation; and

-- Protect home ownership for our seniors and working families.

As an architect, I know how to plan, listen, collaborate and solve problems. I know what it takes to lead in business and in government.

Alternative forms of energy will help combat global warming. They will also help us gain control over the growing price of oil and its impact on our communities.

Last September, gas was less than $2.50 a gallon. Today it tops $3.50. We're all anxious about how much we'll spend to heat our homes this winter and how we'll pay our municipal fuel bills. Small businesses that rely on diesel fuel, from landscapers to contractors, are also hurting.

Today there are few alternatives to oil, so we watch as fuel prices rise. But its time to plan for tomorrow.

Massachusetts has taken a lead in promoting alternative energies with its Green Communities Act. This Act establishes targets and incentives to spur development of new energies that will relieve our reliance on oil.

As your legislator, I will actively promote alternative energies - and the promise they hold for our future.

Ed Mills, Democrat

A registered nurse in every public school in Massachusetts is a great idea.

Our challenge is to turn costs into tangible benefits for our communities.

As your state representative, I will make decisions where public monies are concerned with fiduciary discernment to spend resources not as unthoughtful expenses but rather as profitable investments.

Page 6 of 7 - First, our children are supported in their specific health needs. If one life is saved, who can put a price tag on that? Second, our kids learn about healthy lifestyle choices now and into the future. Thirdly, we offer students one idea about a future career path in the nursing profession which is in need of our adult esteem in words and in action as well as our brightest and best future talent.

As your state representative, I will look for ways to promote this kind of lifelong learning.

Dan Haley, Republican

Tuesday's primary will determine my opponent in the race to succeed Paul Loscocco, who has ably represented our district in the House for eight years.

No matter who I face in November, my message will remain constant: imbalance in our State government yields detached and irresponsible governance. We need a representative who, like Paul, will bring an independent perspective to the State House.

Currently, 141 of 160 members in the House vote against sending money back to our communities, preferring to keep it in Boston. They "debate" important issues behind closed doors, out of public view.

Whoever appears opposite me on the November ballot will be running to join a supermajority that treats the taxpayer like an ATM and cares more about the next election than about fiscal responsibility. Their perspective is over-represented on Beacon Hill. Mine is very different.

I appreciate your support on Tuesday and in November.

www.danhaley2008.com

House of Representatives, 13th Middlesex

Includes Wayland, Sudbury and Lincoln

Susan Pope, Republican

We recently learned that the number of foreclosures in Massachusetts this year already tops the number of foreclosures from all of 2007. This news says a lot about the housing market, but it also points to a real problem with affordability in our state.

Massachusetts residents are so squeezed by rising property taxes, gas prices, and grocery bills that many are unable to make their mortgage payments. Many of them are young families that we can't afford to let slip through the cracks if we want to keep our state strong.

As a state legislator, I would urge my colleagues to focus on creating more and better jobs, keeping tolls and taxes low, and expanding affordable housing options. Easing the burden on residents will make it easier for them to hold on to their homes and retain their piece of the American dream.

Tom Conroy, Democrat

As your state representative, I have successfully advocated for legislation that protects our environment at the local and state level.

I voted for and actively promoted passage of the 2008 Environmental Bond law, which designates $1.64 billion to preserve open spaces, improve and maintain state parks, enhance recreational facilities, and repair bridges, dams and other transportation infrastructure over the next five years.

Page 7 of 7 - I successfully secured $75,000 in new funding from the state for invasive weed eradication in Lincoln and Wayland.

In addition, I co-sponsored and actively advocated for legislation that, if passed, would create a program to research safer alternatives to toxic chemicals. There are many low-cost, environmentally-friendly alternatives, for example, to widely-used cleaning solutions that are linked to serious health conditions. The bill would also assist businesses in transitioning from toxic to safe products. Passage of this bill will be a priority of mine if I am re-elected.

House of Representatives, 14th Norfolk

Includes Wellesley, Weston and Natick precinct 10

Alice Peisch, Democrat

I have worked hard to represent the citizens of this district by focusing my attention on the matters that are important to my constituents. Like many of you, my highest priority has always been to ensure that all students in the Commonwealth have access to an excellent public education and that the state provides adequate financial support for that education. To this end, I have successfully worked with my suburban colleagues to dramatically increase education aid to the towns in my district.

I have also spent a great deal of time working to improve the commuter rail service by organizing the legislators along the Worcester Framingham line to pressure the MBTA, CSX and MBCR to address the unreliable service. As a result, the on time performance of the line is up dramatically from where it was last year at this time.

I will continue to listen to my constituents and work hard to solve together the problems that we face. Thank you for your past support and I ask again for your vote in the Democratic Primary on Tuesday, September 16.

For additional information on these and other issues, please visit www.alicepeisch.com

Larry Kaplan, Democrat

While my focus in the State House will be on containing spiraling health care costs, I am deeply committed to maintaining well-funded, quality public school education, protecting our environment and our community's health, providing low interest loans to our college and university students, repairing our aging infrastructure, addressing the delays and breakdowns of our mass transit system, and finding affordable solutions for our senior citizens to safely remain in their homes.

I take seriously my responsibility to address and defend constituent concerns. You can be sure that I will be in the forefront in opposing the proposed toll increases for the Massachusetts Turnpike. And, just as I am credited with reversing the deteriorating conditions of Leonard Morse Hospital and setting this respected institution back on the right track, I will make every effort to heal our community.